BATMAN Editor MIKE MARTS Returns to Marvel as Executive Editor

DC’s Batman Group Editor Mike Marts is joining Marvel Comics beginning in February, Marvel announced Friday afternoon. This will be Marts’ second stint at Marvel, where he previously worked for a decide (1996 – 2006), rising up to the position of Senior Editor and head of the X-Men office, overseeing such titles as New X-Menwith Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely and Astonishing X-Men with Joss Whedon and John Cassaday.

Marts will assume the title of Executive Editor upon his return. Marvel did not announced what titles Marts would be assigned to.

"Mike Marts is a seasoned veteran who's edited some of the most critically acclaimed and highest-selling series of the last decade," said Marvel Editor in Chief Axel Alonso in a statement. "I'm overjoyed to see him return home, and I can't wait to see what he brings to Marvel!"

"It's amazing to see how Marvel has grown as a company since I worked there last,” Marts added in the announcement. “I am beyond thrilled to be rejoining this powerhouse at such an exciting time."

While it’s not certain, industry speculation will certainly focus on DC Comics moving their offices in 2015 to Burbank, CA . to be integrated with the offices of DC Entertainment as a potential reason for Marts’ move. It is an open industry secret that in recent weeks DC has asked their New York employees to declare whether they intend to move to Burbank. Marts could be one of the first, but potentially not the last DC employee to make the high-profile jump – and in Marts’ case, jump back – to Marvel.

DC declined to comment on the news or address who will take over their Batman office Friday afternoon.